Electronic drum kits offer a compelling alternative to acoustic drums, providing a versatile, space-saving, and volume-controllable drumming experience, making them particularly suitable for home practice and smaller venues.
Within the bustling market of entry and mid-level electronic percussion, the Alesis Nitro Pro and the Millennium MPS 850 frequently emerge as prominent contenders, each presenting a distinct package of features, capabilities, and value propositions designed to attract aspiring drummers and seasoned players seeking a quiet practice solution.
Both kits distinguish themselves by incorporating mesh drum heads, a significant upgrade over traditional rubber pads that offers a more authentic feel and reduced stick noise, fundamentally altering the player’s interaction with the instrument.
Deciding between these two popular options necessitates a thorough understanding of what each kit offers, its strengths, and its potential limitations in the context of a drummer’s individual needs and aspirations.
This comprehensive article endeavors to dissect the offerings of both the Alesis Nitro Pro and the Millennium MPS 850, providing a detailed comparison to empower prospective buyers with the knowledge required to make an informed decision.
We will explore the core features of the Alesis Nitro Pro, examining its module, pads, hardware, and overall performance, alongside a similar analysis of the Millennium MPS 850.
The discussion will then pivot to a direct, feature-by-feature comparison, highlighting the key differences in playability, sound quality, build, and functionality.
By scrutinizing these aspects, we aim to clarify which electronic drum kit might be the superior choice for various types of drummers, from absolute beginners taking their first rhythmic steps to more seasoned intermediate players seeking a reliable practice instrument or a versatile tool for recording and performance.
Unpacking the Alesis Nitro Pro: Core Features and Player Experience
What are the standout features that define the Alesis Nitro Pro electronic drum kit? The Alesis Nitro Pro presents itself as a robust and feature-rich electronic drum kit specifically engineered to cater to the needs of aspiring drummers and those requiring a quiet, yet authentic, drumming experience.
A cornerstone feature of the Alesis Nitro Pro is its implementation of mesh drum heads across all primary playing surfaces – the snare and the toms – which provides a significantly more realistic rebound and feel compared to the rubber pads found on many lower-cost kits.
This tactile response mimics the behavior of acoustic drum heads, allowing drummers to develop proper stick technique and dynamics.
The kit typically includes an 8-inch mesh kick drum tower designed to accommodate a standard bass drum pedal, and importantly, is often compatible with double kick pedals, a crucial consideration for drummers exploring or utilizing double bass techniques.
Examining the control center, the Alesis Nitro Pro module serves as the brain of the kit, housing a diverse library of sounds and functionalities.
This module offers a considerable number of preset drum kits, often powered by samples from the renowned BFD drum library, providing a range of acoustic, electronic, and percussion sounds.
Beyond the presets, the module allows for user-customizable kits, enabling drummers to mix and match sounds to forge their unique sonic identity.
Essential practice tools are integrated into the module, including a metronome with adjustable tempo and time signatures, and often built-in play-along tracks spanning various musical genres, which facilitates structured practice sessions.
Connectivity is a key strength, as the module typically features USB/MIDI output for connecting to computers and triggering virtual instruments or recording MIDI data, an Aux Input for playing along with external audio devices like smartphones or MP3 players, and dedicated Stereo Line Outputs and a Headphone Output for versatile sound routing.
A notable enhancement in the Pro version is often the inclusion of Bluetooth connectivity, which enables wireless audio streaming from mobile devices, simplifying the process of playing along to favorite songs or online lessons.
The pad configuration of the Alesis Nitro Pro typically includes a 10-inch dual-zone mesh snare pad, allowing for distinct head and rim sounds, adding a layer of expressive capability.
The toms are generally 8-inch dual-zone mesh pads, providing two distinct playable areas per pad, further enhancing the kit’s versatility for fills and percussive elements.
The cymbal setup usually consists of three 10-inch cymbal pads: a hi-hat, a crash, and a ride.
The crash cymbal and often the ride cymbal feature choke functionality, allowing drummers to mute the cymbal sound by grabbing the edge, a technique essential for realistic cymbal performance.
The hi-hat pad works in conjunction with a dedicated hi-hat controller pedal, which simulates open, closed, and pedal hi-hat sounds, although the expressiveness can vary compared to an acoustic hi-hat stand and cymbals.
Mounting the pads and cymbals is handled by a four-post steel rack, which provides a relatively sturdy and adjustable frame for the kit components.
This rack design allows for customization of pad and cymbal positioning to suit different player sizes and preferences, contributing to a comfortable playing setup.
While generally stable for typical playing, some users report minor wobble during particularly aggressive drumming, a common characteristic in this price range.
The build quality of the Alesis Nitro Pro is generally considered solid for its price point, offering durable components that can withstand regular practice.
From a user perspective, the Alesis Nitro Pro is widely praised for its exceptional value, particularly the inclusion of mesh heads at an accessible price, which significantly elevates the playing experience.
Drummers transitioning from acoustic kits or those seeking a more realistic feel than rubber pads often find the Nitro Pro a satisfying option.
The module’s sounds, especially the BFD-derived kits, are generally considered good for the category, offering decent fidelity and variety.
The Bluetooth connectivity on the Pro model is frequently highlighted as a major convenience, simplifying integration with external audio sources.
However, the Alesis Nitro Pro is not without its criticisms.
Some users note limitations in the expressiveness of the hi-hat controller pedal, which may not fully capture the nuances of an acoustic hi-hat.
The included kick pedal, while functional, is often cited as a component that intermediate or advanced players might wish to upgrade for better response and durability.
The stability of the rack, while adequate for most, can be a concern for hard-hitting drummers.
Additionally, like many kits in this price range, the onboard sounds, while good, may not satisfy professional users seeking high-fidelity samples, although connecting to VSTs via USB/MIDI mitigates this limitation.
Here is a summary of the Alesis Nitro Pro’s key features:
- Mesh drum heads on snare and toms
- 10-inch dual-zone mesh snare pad
- 8-inch dual-zone mesh tom pads (x3)
- 8-inch mesh kick drum tower (double-kick compatible)
- 10-inch cymbal pads (Hi-Hat, Crash with choke, Ride with choke)
- Nitro Pro Drum Module with BFD sounds (52 kits total: 36 preset, 16 user)
- 500+ sounds
- Bluetooth Audio Connectivity
- USB/MIDI connectivity
- Aux Input, Stereo Line Output, Headphone Output
- Metronome, Sequencer, Recorder, 60 Play-along tracks
- Four-post steel rack
For a full breakdown of user experiences and technical specifications, see our in-depth Alesis Nitro Pro Review.
Exploring the Millennium MPS 850: Capabilities and User Impressions
What does the Millennium MPS 850 offer to drummers, and what are its key characteristics? The Millennium MPS 850 is another prominent electronic drum kit positioned in the competitive entry to mid-level market, often recognized for its comprehensive feature set relative to its price point.
Manufactured by Thomann’s house brand, Millenium, this kit aims to provide a rich drumming experience accessible to a wide audience, from beginners to those seeking a versatile practice instrument.
A significant draw of the Millennium MPS 850 is its inclusion of mesh heads on all drum pads, including the bass drum, similar to the Nitro Pro, which contributes to a quieter playing volume and a more realistic feel than rubber alternatives.
The kit typically features a dedicated hi-hat stand and a separate hi-hat pad and controller, aiming to replicate the feel and function of an acoustic hi-hat setup more closely than systems using a single pad and pedal controller.
Looking at the control unit, the module of the Millennium MPS 850 houses a substantial library of sounds, often boasting over 500 individual voices and numerous preset kits covering various musical styles.
The module also allows for the creation and storage of user-defined drum kits, providing flexibility for sound customization.
Practice features are standard, including a metronome and a collection of play-along songs, facilitating diverse training routines.
A notable aspect of the MPS 850 module can be the inclusion of faders for adjusting the volume of individual pads directly, offering quick control over the mix during playing.
Connectivity options typically include main outputs, a headphone output, an auxiliary input, and USB/MIDI connectivity for integration with computers and external software.
However, unlike the Alesis Nitro Pro, Bluetooth audio connectivity is often absent on the MPS 850 module, which may require external solutions for wireless audio streaming.
The pad configuration for the Millennium MPS 850 is often generous for its price category.
It commonly includes a 10-inch dual-zone mesh snare pad and multiple mesh tom pads, frequently comprising two 8-inch dual-zone mesh toms and two 10-inch dual-zone mesh toms, providing a slightly larger setup than the standard Nitro Pro and offering dual-zone articulation on all toms.
The bass drum pad is typically an 8-inch mesh pad designed to accommodate a standard bass drum pedal, and it is also capable of handling double pedals.
The cymbal setup features multiple cymbal pads, commonly including two 12-inch dual-zone crash cymbal pads with choke and a 12-inch three-zone ride cymbal pad with choke, offering bow, edge, and bell sounds on the ride for enhanced expressiveness.
The separate 12-inch hi-hat pad and controller on a stand aims to provide a more realistic hi-hat feel and response compared to pedal-based controllers.
The framework supporting the kit is generally a sturdy rack system, although user opinions on its long-term stability can vary.
The individual pad and cymbal mounts allow for positioning adjustments, enabling drummers to set up the kit ergonomically.
The build quality of the Millennium MPS 850 is often described as good for its price, offering decent components, though some users have reported potential concerns regarding the longevity or feel of certain components, such as the hi-hat controller or the responsiveness of specific cymbal zones.
From a user perspective, the Millennium MPS 850 is frequently lauded for its perceived value, offering a comprehensive set with numerous pads and multi-zone cymbals at a competitive price point.
The inclusion of a separate hi-hat stand is often seen as a significant advantage for players seeking a more traditional feel.
The sheer number of sounds and the ability to create user kits are also appreciated.
However, the Millennium MPS 850 faces some common criticisms.
The quality of the onboard sounds in the module is sometimes described as less refined or authentic compared to modules from brands like Alesis (especially those with BFD sounds) or Roland, with some samples sounding dated or artificial.
The performance and reliability of the hi-hat controller on the stand can be inconsistent according to some user reports, not always accurately translating foot pedal nuances.
While the build is generally decent, some users have noted potential durability issues with specific hardware pieces over time.
The user interface of the module is occasionally described as less intuitive than competing brands.
Here is a summary of the Millennium MPS 850’s key features:
- Mesh drum heads on all drum pads (snare, toms, kick)
- 10-inch dual-zone mesh snare pad
- 8-inch dual-zone mesh tom pads (x2)
- 10-inch dual-zone mesh tom pads (x2)
- 8-inch mesh kick drum pad (double-kick compatible)
- 12-inch dual-zone crash cymbal pads with choke (x2)
- 12-inch three-zone ride cymbal pad with choke
- 12-inch hi-hat pad on a stand with controller
- Module with 550+ sounds and numerous kits (preset and user)
- Faders for individual pad volume control
- USB/MIDI connectivity
- Aux Input, Main Outputs, Headphone Output
- Metronome, Play-along songs
Alesis Nitro Pro vs. Millennium MPS 850: A Detailed Head-to-Head
When placed side-by-side, how do the Alesis Nitro Pro and Millennium MPS 850 compare across critical aspects of an electronic drum kit? A direct comparison between the Alesis Nitro Pro and the Millennium MPS 850 reveals distinct differences that can significantly influence a drummer’s experience and decision.
While both kits share the fundamental advantage of mesh drum heads, the execution and accompanying features set them apart.
Comparing the Feel and Pad Quality, both kits utilize mesh heads for a more realistic bounce than rubber pads.
The Alesis Nitro Pro typically features an 8-inch mesh kick tower, while the Millennium MPS 850 has an 8-inch mesh kick pad that attaches to its rack, with both supporting double pedals.
The snare sizes are often comparable, with the Nitro Pro having a 10-inch dual-zone snare and the MPS 850 also featuring a 10-inch dual-zone snare.
A key difference lies in the tom configuration; the standard Alesis Nitro Pro includes three 8-inch dual-zone toms, whereas the Millennium MPS 850 often provides four dual-zone toms (two 8-inch and two 10-inch), offering a larger playing surface and more pads in total.
The mesh heads on both kits provide a similar fundamental feel, but subtle differences in tensioning and sensor response can exist, influencing dynamic accuracy and sensitivity.
The Sound Module represents a significant point of divergence.
The module of the Alesis Nitro Pro is known for incorporating BFD sounds, which many users perceive as higher quality and more realistic than the standard samples often found in the Millennium MPS 850 module.
While the MPS 850 boasts a larger raw number of sounds (550+ vs. 500+ for Nitro Pro), the perceived sound quality of the Nitro Pro’s BFD kits is often favored.
Both modules offer essential practice tools like metronomes and play-along songs, and both provide USB/MIDI connectivity for VST integration.
However, the Alesis Nitro Pro typically includes integrated Bluetooth audio input, a modern convenience often absent on the MPS 850, requiring a separate adapter for wireless audio streaming.
The MPS 850 module counter-offers with physical faders for quick volume adjustments, a feature not present on the Nitro Pro module, which provides a different workflow for mixing kit elements.
In terms of Hardware and Build Quality, both kits utilize steel racks, but their design and stability can differ.
User feedback suggests that while both are adequate, the Alesis Nitro Pro‘s rack may feel slightly more stable for some users, particularly around the snare pad area, although some wobble can still occur with aggressive playing on both kits.
A major hardware difference lies in the hi-hat; the Millennium MPS 850 comes with a separate hi-hat stand and a realistic pedal mechanism, aiming for a more authentic feel than the Alesis Nitro Pro‘s included pedal controller.
However, the performance and durability of the MPS 850’s hi-hat controller have received mixed reviews.
The included pedals for the kick drum on both kits are generally considered functional for beginners but are often candidates for future upgrades.
Long-term durability is a factor where opinions can vary, with some users reporting robust performance from both brands, while others have encountered issues with specific components over time, particularly with less established brands like Millenium compared to Alesis.
Looking at the overall Configuration, the Millennium MPS 850 typically offers a larger number of pads (four toms) compared to the Alesis Nitro Pro (three toms), providing more playing surfaces for fills and complex patterns.
The cymbal setup on the MPS 850 is also often more extensive, with two chokeable crashes and a three-zone ride compared to the Nitro Pro’s single chokeable crash and a ride that may or may not have a working bell zone on all presets.
This potentially larger setup provides more creative options out of the box with the MPS 850.
Regarding additional Features, both kits include essential practice functions.
The Alesis Nitro Pro‘s Bluetooth connectivity is a significant modern convenience, allowing seamless integration with learning apps and music playback.
The Millennium MPS 850‘s module with its faders offers a more hands-on mixing experience.
The ability to load user samples or expand the kits can vary, and potential buyers should research the specific capabilities of each module in this regard if expansion is a priority.
Finally, the Price and Value proposition is crucial.
The Millennium MPS 850 is often positioned at a slightly lower or comparable price point to the Alesis Nitro Pro, while potentially offering more pads and a more traditional hi-hat setup.
This can make the MPS 850 appear to offer greater immediate value for money in terms of raw components.
However, the perceived higher sound quality from the Nitro Pro’s BFD sounds and the added convenience of integrated Bluetooth in the Pro model contribute significantly to its own value proposition.
The reputation and customer support of the brands can also factor into the perceived value; Alesis, as a more globally recognized brand, may offer a different level of support compared to Thomann’s house brand, Millennium.
Here is a comparison table summarizing key differences:
Feature | Alesis Nitro Pro | Millennium MPS 850 |
---|---|---|
Snare Size/Zones | 10-inch Dual-Zone Mesh | 10-inch Dual-Zone Mesh |
Tom Pads | 3 x 8-inch Dual-Zone Mesh | 2 x 8-inch Dual-Zone Mesh, 2 x 10-inch Dual-Zone Mesh |
Kick Pad | 8-inch Mesh Kick Tower (Double-kick compatible) | 8-inch Mesh Pad (Double-kick compatible) |
Crash Cymbals | 1 x 10-inch with Choke | 2 x 12-inch with Choke |
Ride Cymbal | 1 x 10-inch with Choke (Bell may vary) | 1 x 12-inch Three-Zone with Choke |
Hi-Hat Setup | 10-inch Pad with Pedal Controller | 12-inch Pad on Stand with Controller |
Module Sounds | 500+ (Includes BFD sounds) | 550+ |
Bluetooth Audio | Yes (Integrated) | No (Typically requires adapter) |
Module Controls | Standard buttons/interface | Physical Faders for volume control |
Configuration | 5-piece kit (Snare, 3 Toms, Kick) | 6-piece kit (Snare, 4 Toms, Kick) |
Typical Price | Entry to Mid-level | Entry to Mid-level (Often slightly lower) |
Brand Reputation | Established Global Brand | Thomann House Brand |
Who Should Lean Towards the Alesis Nitro Pro?
Based on its specific attributes, which type of drummer is best suited for the Alesis Nitro Pro? The Alesis Nitro Pro is an excellent choice for beginner to intermediate drummers who prioritize a balance of realistic feel, modern features, and the reassurance of an established brand.
Drummers who value the convenience of integrated Bluetooth audio connectivity for effortless streaming of music or online lessons will find the Nitro Pro particularly appealing.
This feature simplifies playing along with external audio sources without the need for extra cables or adapters.
Furthermore, players who appreciate higher quality onboard drum sounds right out of the box will likely prefer the Alesis Nitro Pro.
The inclusion of BFD sounds in the module provides a more professional and authentic sonic palette compared to the standard samples found in many competing kits in this price range, including the MPS 850.
While connecting to VSTs offers the ultimate in sound quality for both kits, having better native sounds is a significant advantage for practice and immediate playability.
The Alesis Nitro Pro also caters well to adult beginners due to its slightly taller and more robust rack design compared to some other entry-level kits, making it more comfortable for larger individuals to play ergonomically.
Drummers looking for a solid entry point into electronic drums with mesh heads from a widely recognized brand known for its electronic percussion offerings will find the Nitro Pro a reliable option.
While the rack stability can be a minor concern for very hard hitters, for typical practice volumes and playing styles, the Nitro Pro provides a dependable setup.
In essence, if your priorities include:
- Integrated Bluetooth for easy wireless audio.
- Perceived higher quality onboard sounds (BFD).
- A comfortable playing height and setup for an adult.
- The backing of an established brand with potentially more accessible support.
- A strong overall value package focusing on core playability and essential modern features.
Then the Alesis Nitro Pro is likely the more suitable electronic drum kit for your needs.
It offers a compelling combination of features and performance that makes it a popular and well-regarded option in its market segment.
Who Might Find the Millennium MPS 850 a Better Fit?
Considering its particular strengths and weaknesses, for whom might the Millennium MPS 850 be the more advantageous electronic drum kit? The Millennium MPS 850 often appeals strongly to budget-conscious drummers seeking the maximum number of features and pads for their investment.
If getting a larger kit configuration with more toms and cymbals is a primary goal without significantly increasing spending, the MPS 850 frequently offers a more expansive setup out of the box compared to similarly priced competitors like the standard Alesis Nitro Pro.
The inclusion of four dual-zone toms and two chokeable crash cymbals, alongside a three-zone ride, provides greater versatility and playing surfaces for drummers who desire more options immediately.
Furthermore, drummers who prefer a more traditional hi-hat feel and setup might lean towards the Millennium MPS 850.
Its inclusion of a separate hi-hat stand with a dedicated pad and controller aims to replicate the feel of an acoustic hi-hat more closely than the pedal-based controllers found on many entry-level electronic kits, including the Alesis Nitro Pro.
While the performance of this hi-hat system can be subject to individual experience and setup, the attempt to provide a more realistic feel is a key differentiator.
The Millennium MPS 850 can also be a strong contender for drummers who primarily intend to use external Drum VST software (like EZdrummer, Superior Drummer, or Steven Slate Drums) via USB/MIDI connectivity for their primary drum sounds.
In this scenario, the perceived lower quality of the module’s onboard sounds becomes less of a critical factor, as the module serves primarily as a MIDI trigger.
The MPS 850’s generous pad configuration and multi-zone capabilities can be leveraged effectively when triggering high-quality sounds from software.
Players who appreciate direct, hands-on control over their drum mix might also favor the Millennium MPS 850 due to the presence of physical faders on the module.
This feature allows for quick and intuitive volume adjustments of individual kit components without navigating through menus, streamlining the mixing process during practice or performance.
In summary, the Millennium MPS 850 is a compelling option for drummers who prioritize:
- Getting the most pads and cymbals for their budget (a larger configuration).
- A more traditional hi-hat feel via a separate stand and controller.
- Primary use with external VSTs, making onboard sound quality less critical.
- Direct physical controls on the module (faders).
- Maximizing value for money in terms of included hardware components.
While the MPS 850 may have some potential drawbacks regarding module sound fidelity and the consistency of certain components compared to more expensive kits or established brands, its feature set and price point make it an attractive proposition for specific drumming needs and budget constraints.
Making the Final Decision: Weighing Your Priorities
Given the distinct characteristics of each kit, what factors should guide your final choice between the Alesis Nitro Pro and the Millennium MPS 850? Deciding between the Alesis Nitro Pro and the Millennium MPS 850 ultimately boils down to aligning the kit’s strengths with your personal priorities, budget, and drumming goals.
Both are capable electronic drum kits that offer the significant advantage of mesh drum heads over rubber pads, providing a more satisfying and quieter playing experience suitable for home use.
However, their differences cater to slightly different needs and preferences.
Consider your budget: While both are in a similar entry to mid-level price bracket, the Millennium MPS 850 can sometimes be found at a slightly lower price or offer bundles that include accessories like a throne and headphones, potentially offering greater immediate value if the total cost is the absolute primary concern.
However, factor in potential long-term costs if you anticipate upgrading components.
Think about your playing space and configuration needs: If a more expansive setup with four toms and additional cymbals is important to you right away, the standard Millennium MPS 850 configuration provides more pads than the standard Alesis Nitro Pro.
Conversely, if a slightly more compact footprint is desirable, compare the exact rack dimensions of both kits.
Evaluate the importance of onboard sound quality: If you plan to practice primarily using the module’s internal sounds and are seeking the most realistic and high-fidelity samples possible in this price range, the Alesis Nitro Pro with its BFD sounds is generally considered to have the edge.
If you intend to connect to VSTs most of the time, the MPS 850’s module sounds become less critical, and its larger pad count might be more appealing for triggering software instruments.
Reflect on your preference for modern connectivity: If seamless, wireless audio streaming from your phone or tablet is a must-have for playing along to music or using drumming apps, the integrated Bluetooth on the Alesis Nitro Pro offers unparalleled convenience in this comparison.
If you don’t need or prefer Bluetooth, the MPS 850’s standard connectivity might be perfectly adequate.
Consider the importance of hardware feel, particularly the hi-hat: If you are looking for the closest possible approximation of an acoustic hi-hat feel in this price range, the Millennium MPS 850‘s separate stand and controller attempts to deliver a more traditional experience, although user reviews on its performance vary.
If a pedal-based controller is acceptable and integrated Bluetooth is more valuable, the Nitro Pro is a strong contender.
Factor in brand reputation and potential support: Alesis is a globally recognized brand with a longer history in electronic percussion, which may translate to more readily available support, parts, and a larger community for troubleshooting and tips.
Millennium, as a house brand, might have support primarily through Thomann.
Ultimately, neither kit is objectively “better” than the other; they simply cater to different priorities.
Here are some key questions to ask yourself:
- Is integrated Bluetooth essential for my practice routine?
- How important is the quality of the onboard sounds if I’m not using VSTs?
- Do I need or want four tom pads and extra cymbals?
- How important is a traditional hi-hat stand setup?
- Is price the absolute deciding factor, or am I willing to pay slightly more for specific features or brand reputation?
By carefully considering these factors and reviewing the detailed comparison points, you can determine which electronic drum kit, the Alesis Nitro Pro or the Millennium MPS 850, best aligns with your individual needs and helps you achieve your drumming aspirations.
Conclusion: Two Strong Contenders in the E-Drum Arena
In conclusion, both the Alesis Nitro Pro and the Millennium MPS 850 stand out as compelling options within the crowded market of entry to mid-level electronic drum kits, each successfully bringing the desirable feature of mesh drum heads to a more accessible price point.
The choice between them ultimately rests on individual preferences and priorities.
The Alesis Nitro Pro distinguishes itself with its higher perceived onboard sound quality derived from BFD samples and the undeniable convenience of integrated Bluetooth audio connectivity, making it a strong contender for those prioritizing seamless modern integration and good sounds out of the box from an established brand.
Conversely, the Millennium MPS 850 offers a potentially larger configuration with more pads and cymbals for the price, along with a more traditional hi-hat setup on a stand and the unique addition of physical faders on the module, appealing to drummers seeking maximum hardware value and a more hands-on mixing experience, particularly if using external VSTs is planned.
Both kits provide solid platforms for practice and learning, offering essential tools like metronomes and play-along songs.
Prospective buyers are encouraged to weigh the detailed comparison of their features, sound quality, build, and value against their personal requirements and budget to select the electronic drum kit that will best serve their drumming journey.